SASE made simple with Tata Communications: The AXIOM methodology 

Introduction

As businesses continue to adopt Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) to tackle evolving network and security challenges, there are still some vital factors to keep in mind. While SASE combines networking and security into a comprehensive solution, its complexity can create hurdles during deployment and optimisation. However, with the right partner, these challenges can be confidently managed. This is given greater credence by recent Omdia research, which shows that nearly 48%* of enterprises seek to engage specialist partners to manage their network security.

In the previous blog, we had established how strategically crafted value-added services (VAS) are vital for simplifying SASE adoption: helping businesses overcome migration issues, integration hurdles and ongoing operational inefficiencies. But to fully realise the potential of VAS, strategic partnerships are essential. And specialists like Tata Communications have transformed SASE implementation and optimisation through their innovative methodologies like AXIOM, making the process simpler, smarter, and more effective than ever before.

The need for strategic partnerships in SASE deployments

Deploying and managing SASE is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Enterprises require tailored solutions and expert guidance to achieve successful implementation. Strategic partners like Tata Communications bring proven methodologies, advanced tools, and deep expertise, ensuring seamless SASE deployments.

Tata Communications’ AXIOM methodology is a structured, step-by-step framework designed to address every stage of SASE implementation. The core activities in our methodology include:

• Assess: Evaluate current systems and co-create a best-fit solution with assessment tools and collaborative workshops.
  • Infrastructure Analysis
  • Discovery Workshops and Structured POC
  • Deployment Roadmap
• Execute: First time-right deployment supported by our ddedicated program managers
  • Project Planning and Scheduling
  • Pilot Site/Users Validation
  • Hardware Delivery and Installation
• Integrate: Seamlessly align SASE with existing infrastructure with rigorous testing to minimise any disruptions.
  • Integration and Migration Approach
  • Installation and Configuration Management
  • Testing and Validation
• Operate and Manage:  AI-powered services optimise performance and minimise downtime
  • Automated Fault Diagnosis
  • Periodic Policy Optimisation
  • Feature-rich Customer Portal
  • Pro-active Network Monitoring

The Core activities are the foundational elements of any successful SASE deployment. By focusing on assessment, execution, integration, operation and optimisation, organisations can ensure a smooth transition to a unified security and networking architecture. These core activities provide a solid framework for delivering key SASE capabilities, such as SD-WAN, secure web gateway, FWaaS, and zero-trust network access. Additionally, automation and AI also play a crucial role in modern SASE deployments. From automated threat detection to real-time policy validation, these technologies relieve businesses from manual errors and provide proactive system monitoring – Tata Communications leverages proprietary AI-driven tools to deliver predictive insights and ensure robust security.

While the above includes services delivered as ‘Core Activities,’ additional ‘Value Added Services Packs’ (VAS Packs) help simplify the end-to-end SASE adoption journey. Enterprises with unique needs can leverage these VAS Packs to further enhance their SASE solution, ensuring optimal performance and security.

A blueprint for success: Tata Communications’ AXIOM methodology VAS Packs

The AXIOM methodology the cornerstone of Tata Communications' approach to simplifying SASE adoption. It provides a comprehensive framework covering every deployment journey, ensuring businesses achieve seamless and scalable network transformations. 

The VAS packs offer organisations the flexibility to tailor their SASE deployments to specific needs and industry requirements. These additional services, such as digital twin, secure network transformation, and dedicated program management, can significantly enhance the overall value and effectiveness of a SASE solution for their custom needs. By leveraging VAS packs, organisations can optimise their SASE deployment, accelerate digital transformation, and achieve higher levels of security and performance.

The core components for VAS packs under the AXIOM methodology encompass the following:

Assess

• Secure network transformation roadmap: A strategic blueprint aligning SASE adoption with business goals, minimising risks, and maximising benefits.
• Digital twin: A virtual replica of your network to test and validate changes, reducing deployment risks for a seamless SASE implementation.

Execute

• Dedicated program management: Expert-led end-to-end oversight for timely, efficient, and risk-mitigated SASE deployment.

Integrate

• Migration: Seamless transition from traditional firewalls to SD-WAN/SSE-enabled architecture, minimising disruptions and optimising performance, cost-efficiency, and security. 
• Security: Holistic integration of SSE with existing security infrastructure and Managed Detection & Response, enabling proactive threat detection and response for a fortified network.
• Headend Installation: Expert deployment of SD-WAN/SSE infrastructure at central locations, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and seamless integration with enterprise networks.

Operate and Manage

• mBYON: Secure, flexible connectivity for hybrid workforces by integrating local ISPs with SD-WAN for cost-effective, optimised network management. 

ProCare

• Advanced monitoring and support to proactively detect and resolve issues, ensuring high availability, security, and optimal network performance.

Why Tata Communications is the ideal partner for SASE

In an era where secure and seamless connectivity is paramount, SASE offers businesses the tools they need to thrive. However, realising SASE’s full potential requires a partner who understands the intricacies of deployment and optimisation. Through its AXIOM methodology, Tata Communications has set a new benchmark for simplifying SASE adoption. By combining tailored VAS packs, cutting-edge tools, and a customer-first approach, Tata Communications empowers businesses to future-proof their networks while achieving operational excellence.

Tata Communications stands out as a leader in networking and security services, offering unmatched expertise and innovative solutions tailored to enterprise needs. As a global leader with over 1,000 successful deployments in SD-WAN, SASE, and security solutions – Tata Communications promises a 99.8% first-time-right implementation rate. 

With this holistic suite of services in place, Tata Communications transforms SASE from a complex technology framework into a simplified, scalable, and secure solution, making it the ideal partner for businesses navigating digital transformation.

Ready to simplify your SASE journey? Partner with Tata Communications and discover how the AXIOM matrix can transform your network infrastructure.

Source: Omdia’s Global Enterprise Network Services Insights surveys of IT executives, 2023